Amani Duncan has been promoted from president to CEO of BBH USA.
In the newly created CEO position, Duncan will work closely with USA chief creative officer Rafael Rizuto and the senior leadership team to shape the future for BBH USA and create impactful and world class creativity for clients. Duncan will continue to manage the growth of the business, overseeing BBH USA’s clients and major campaigns. Reporting into global CSO of Publicis Groupe Carla Serrano, Duncan is also one of the integral members of the BBH Global Board, which was recently launched to empower local leadership, maintain global connectivity across the BBH offices, and drive the power of creativity across the agency’s key markets.
During 2021, Duncan oversaw bold creative work, exemplary of BBH USA’s diverse and progressive team, including Glass Ceiling Breaker and Google’s Black Owned Friday. In her previous role as president of BBH USA, she led significant growth and momentum, increased the agency’s headcount by 77%, and landed new clients including LinkedIn, Google, Walmart, Mattel, Netflix, Lionsgate and Martell U.S. BBH USA’s award-winning work was recognized with more than 45 trophies at Cannes Lions, One Show, D&AD, ANDY’s, Clios and Webbys.
Duncan also spearheaded internal initiatives, including DE&I, achieving measurable progress in 2021, reaching 50% diverse in race and an agency that is 64% female. With creative and business expertise from across the music, media, marketing and manufacturing industries, she brings a fresh perspective to the leadership of BBH USA. Her experience within the music and entertainment industry spans record labels including Def Jam, Virgin, Sean Combs’ Bad Boy Worldwide Entertainment Group and MTV.
“BBH is the shining gem of our creative portfolio; its heritage famously rooted in creating better work,” said Publicis Groupe’s Serrano. “In the U.S., BBH is particularly special given its glorious intersection of innovation, diversity and cultural fire. I know Amani has the vision, creative soul and black sheep zagness to lead the agency forward on its journey to creating iconic and future-facing creativity for clients.”
“We believe we are standing on the shoulders of giants and hold in honor the foundation built by our founders Nigel Bogle, John Bartle and John Hegarty. We do not take lightly the responsibility of shepherding this illustrious agency into the future,” said Duncan. “It is an absolute privilege to lead this incredible team of black sheep. I am energized every day by the enormous opportunities on the horizon to propel brands forward, champion causes that matter and continue to grow and diversify our talent.”
A passionate advocate for female leadership and diversity, Duncan is a founding member of Chief, the leadership network for women, and serves on several boards and committees, including the 4A’s Board of Directors, 4A’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusive Steering Committee and Outward Bound USA.
